Swelling, or edema, in the feet, is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Swelling of the feet is primarily attributed to hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and fluid retention. The surge in progesterone slows digestion and circulation, leading to fluid accumulation, particularly in the lower extremities. Additionally, the body's heightened blood volume, necessary to support fetal growth and prepare for labor, worsens this swelling. Swelling can begin as early as the fifth month, especially in women exposed to hot climates or extended periods of standing. Taking regular short walks, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and opting for comfortable footwear can help alleviate discomfort. Dietary modifications, including potassium-rich foods and reduced sodium intake, may also help manage swelling. If you are troubled by swelling or other foot ailments during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

While flip-flops are convenient, wearing them can have negative effects on the feet. Most flip-flops lack proper arch support and cushioning. Prolonged use of flip-flops can lead to issues like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and increased strain on the toes. This is because flip-flops can cause you to put more pressure on the plantar fascia, tissues that run from the toes to the heel. The toes also perform a constant gripping motion to keep flip-flops on, which can cause muscle fatigue and contribute to toe deformities. Additionally, the minimal protection flip-flops offer the feet leave them exposed to the elements, increasing the risk of injuries, sunburn, and infections. If you are experiencing foot pain from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can rule out any other causes and discuss alternative footwear. 

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the big toe joint is a common source of discomfort that affects mobility and overall quality of life for many individuals. Whether stemming from age-related wear and tear, conditions like bunions, or physical injuries, understanding the underlying causes is vital for effective management. Hallux rigidus, characterized by joint degeneration and restricted movement, often accompanies osteoarthritis and may require surgical intervention in severe cases. Bunions are bony protrusions that often necessitate changes in footwear and orthotic support, with surgery as a potential solution for more severe cases. Physical injuries to the big toe joint can lead to swelling, pain, and an increased risk of developing arthritis or other joint-related issues. When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options such as bunionectomy, joint realignment, or fusion may be needed. If you have persistent pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis, before deciding on the right treatment. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common foot ailment, affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing discomfort and hindering mobility. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or strained. It is characterized by sharp pain at the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel, especially noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. While the exact cause remains elusive, factors such as overuse, improper footwear, high-impact activities, and tight calf muscles contribute to its onset. Plantar fasciitis is prevalent among athletes, runners, and individuals who spend extended periods on their feet. Fortunately, conservative treatments like rest, stretching exercises, and orthotic inserts, can alleviate symptoms and promote healing in many cases. However, persistent cases may require medical intervention, including corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM  from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The human foot, with its intricate network of bones, is organized into two arches, one running the length of the foot and other the width. The arches are supported by ligaments, muscles, and the plantar fascia, which runs beneath the foot. They function as a shock absorbing system during walking. Foot pain can be felt in the arches, including muscle strain, ligament sprains, fractures, poor alignment, or tightness within the foot's structures. Inflammation of the plantar fascia, often due to injury or repetitive stress, commonly leads to discomfort and restricted mobility. Symptoms of arch pain can include a dull ache in the bottom of the foot, a sign of plantar fasciitis, or specific joint tenderness or swelling, which may indicate a sprain or fracture, necessitating prompt medical attention. Conditions such as arthritis or stress fractures can also result from repetitive stress or trauma to the foot muscles or bones. A physical examination by a podiatrist, imaging tests, and gait analysis may be needed. If you are suffering from arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.